Checking your attic insulation is something that you should do at least twice a year. It only takes a few minutes and can help keep your utility bills where they should be. Your insulation can tell you a lot about the heath of your roof. What few people know is that according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors as long as insulation stays dry, it should last between 80 and 100 years, depending on what type of insulation you have.
If you haven’t been in your attic in the past six months, read today’s blog and head up to your attic with a bright flashlight and remember these three things to look for:
1. Matted Down Insulation
If insulation in one part of your attic is significantly lower than another area, there may be a roof leak. When attic insulation gets wet, it compresses. Once it’s compressed, it’s no longer doing its job. Even if you stop the roof leak, any insulation that has been wet should be removed and replaced. Your roofing company can repair the leak and recommend what insulation need replacing.
2. Mold or Mildew on Your Insulation
Mold and mildew indicate excessive moisture in your attic. This could be a sign that you don’t have enough attic insulation or because your ventilation isn’t sufficient. The moisture from inside your home rises from bathrooms and escapes partially through your attic when there isn’t enough insulation. Again, a roofing company can determine if you need additional ventilation.
3. Sufficient Insulation
If your home was built before 1982 and you’ve never replaced or added to your home’s insulation, chances are good you don’t have the recommended R-value in your attic. A good rule of thumb is that the insulation should almost be level with the floor joists. Here is a link that can give you more information as different insulation types have slightly different recommendations.
If you don’t have a roofing company you trust for roofing inspections, call Cooley Roofing and Construction. We’re local and understand the ventilation and insulation recommendations for area homes. When we perform an inspection, we evaluate the entire roofing system and recommend any necessary repair or changes. Call 366-766-6488 to schedule your no obligation inspection today.
